Abstract
Dr. Raj will briefly explain the advantages of digitally measuring muscles and occlusion, enabling dentists to register a bite accurately for any dental procedure, from a single-tooth filling to a multi-implant full-mouth rehabilitation.
He will also discuss the importance of measuring trajectories with axiography and digital facebow/3D articulators to improve efficiency, precision, and communication with the laboratory, leading to better treatment outcomes with any orthodontic system, including aligners and conventional orthodontics.
In addition, he will highlight the concept of achieving a bilaterally symmetrical isotonic muscle bite through the use of patented TENS units, as well as the role of electromyography in muscle assessment and bite confirmation.
Dr. Raj will further outline the clinical value of digital occlusion technology in verifying the bite with micron-level precision, which is especially significant given that occlusal proprioception begins at 5 microns.
Learning Objectives
- Understand the importance of utilizing digital technology in everyday orthodontic practice.
- Recognize how digital dentistry can support not only tooth movement but also functional occlusion and facial aesthetics.
- Explain the role of digital 3D articulators in improving communication with dental laboratories and treatment planning for procedures ranging from single-tooth restorations to full-mouth rehabilitations, orthodontics, and smile design.
- Understand the role of muscle physiology in occlusion and its impact on achieving a stable bite.
- Differentiate between reprogrammers and deprogrammers and understand their role in occlusal management.
- Appreciate the broader role of dentists as oral physicians responsible for both dental function and overall oral health.
